Monday, November 29, 2010

How I Display My Vintage Ornaments

Yesterday’s post was about the decorations that were used when I was growing up in the 1950’s. We have come a long way since that time. I think a little more sophisticated. I miss the nostalgia that comes with memories from Christmas past.

As I said yesterday I have collected vintage ornaments from 1930’s to 1970’s. I now have them mixed in with my family ornaments on the family tree.
Last year I took some of them and did a fun display on my mantle………….

I mixed some old with the new in clear glass apothecary jars!

This is the right side of the mantel. You can actually see the glow of the tree's white lights in the clear glass apothecary jars.

This is the left side of the mantel. In this picture you can see I used all clear glass holders with white pillar and column candles. I also used clear red glass tea light holders.

On each side of the mantel I used an urn that has a tree that is a moss green with gold and pink/red sparkly beads.

I placed ornaments in a row at the base of the cone trees to repeat the element used in the apothecary jars. By doing that it keeps the eye moving and gives more of a flow.

The center of my mantel. I don’t know if you all remember, but this mantel is 17 ft. long and I only have a little less than 4ft. of wall space above it.

Now who is that in the left of the mirror? Is that one of Santa’s helpers? (note to self and hubby, look at the reflection when taking a picture in front of the mirror.)

That is how I displayed my vintage ornaments last year!! I love the colors and the way they catch the lights. I hope you enjoyed my little display and it inspires you to pull out your old family ornaments so you can enjoy them.

“Enjoy the Process” Of:

Using and enjoying your ornaments other than just on the tree!

Kathysue

I am linking to the Mantel Party over at Layla's Lettered Cottage

Be sure and go by to see all of the great mantel's. You are sure to get some great ideas!!

What a gorgeous way to display your vintage ornaments. My parents have an entire tree filled with these same type of ornaments - they are so pretty. I could see them not wanting to be bothered putting a tree up one year and this would be such a nice way to still enjoy the ornaments. I'm interested to see what you come up with this year.

Oh Kathysue, your mantel is stunning. You always come up with the best ideas. Your apothecary jars filled with the ornaments are just exquisite. Love your mantel decor. Wow, you really did get going and got a lot done. Hugs, Marty

Kathysue, What a beautiful and stunning way to display your precious ornaments. I have so many from my mother and grandmother and they would look fabulous in glass apothecary jars! Your mantle is inspirational!Yvonne

This is so beautiful! I LOVE the vintage ornaments ... seeing them brings back memories of my own ... staring at my families Christmas trees filled with them. The way they "glow" at night is mesmerizing! I'd love to see this in person. Take care, Becca

Kathysue, my mom had those vintage ornaments when we were growing up too. I love your display, it's gorgeous! Those old ornaments just have such a pretty look to them that can't be duplicated. I'd love to have some of them. My mom is going to pass on what she has left to me soon, I hope!